What can we learn about obedience from Pharaoh's response in Exodus 9:10? Setting the Scene “So they took soot from a furnace and stood before Pharaoh. Moses tossed it into the air, and festering boils broke out on men and beasts.” (Exodus 9:10) Pharaoh’s Response: A Portrait of Stubborn Disobedience - Pharaoh had already witnessed five previous plagues and ignored each warning. - Instead of yielding, he hardened his heart yet again (see Exodus 9:12), proving that repeated confrontation with God’s power does not guarantee surrender. - His refusal highlights the difference between awareness of God and submission to God (James 2:19). Key Takeaways on Obedience • Delayed or partial obedience is still disobedience. Pharaoh saw God’s judgment but postponed repentance, illustrating 1 Samuel 15:22: “To obey is better than sacrifice.” • Hardened hearts grow harder. Every “no” to God echoed into deeper resistance (Hebrews 3:13). • God’s commands are not suggestions; ignoring them invites escalating consequences (Proverbs 29:1). • True obedience involves humility. Pharaoh’s pride barred him from bowing before the Lord (Proverbs 16:18). • External pressure cannot create internal surrender. Even severe boils could not force Pharaoh’s heart to obey; obedience must be freely offered (Deuteronomy 30:19-20). Scriptural Reinforcement - John 14:15 — “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.” - Romans 6:16 — Obedience leads to righteousness; disobedience leads to death. - Psalm 95:8 — “Do not harden your hearts.” - Luke 6:46 — Calling Jesus “Lord” requires doing what He says. Practical Steps Toward Obedience 1. Invite the Holy Spirit to soften any resistant area (Ezekiel 36:26). 2. Act promptly on what God reveals; do not wait for a “boil” moment. 3. Replace pride with gratitude, remembering that obedience is worship (Romans 12:1). 4. Surround yourself with believers who model submission to God’s Word (Hebrews 10:24-25). 5. Measure decisions against Scripture, not circumstances; Pharaoh saw circumstances but ignored God’s voice (Psalm 119:105). |
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